Learn about Summa's AFib treatment program options. You'll also gain an understanding of:

The types of atrial fibrillation

Symptoms

Risk factors

Risks and Symptoms

Many people don't realize they have an arrhythmia or abnormal heart rhythm disorder. They either ignore the symptoms or don't notice they have symptoms. Other patients notice a difference as soon as it occurs. Symptoms can be different for each person, depending on age, the cause of the abnormal heart rhythm disorder, and how much it affects the pumping efficiency of the heart muscle.

The most common symptoms patients may experience include:

Weakness or fatigue

Irregular or rapid pulse

Shortness of breath

Racing or pounding heart, or fluttering in the chest

Difficulty performing everyday activities

Pain, pressure or tightness in the chest

Lightheadedness -- dizziness or feeling like you could pass out

Several tests may be performed to help diagnose whether you have an abnormal heart rhythm as well as what type of disorder you may have. Some of these tests may include:

Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures the rate and rhythm of your heart and provides a "snapshot" of your heart's electrical activity.

Holter monitor: A portable ECG which includes a small recording machine worn around the waist; electrical activity of the heart is recorded for your doctor to review later.

Mobile cardiac monitoring: Worn for longer periods up to 30 days, records your heart's activity when in normal and abnormal rhythm. The results are automatically sent to the doctor who uses the information to evaluate symptoms to determine the cause of the abnormal rhythm.

Event monitor: Portable ECG used for patients who have an occasional irregular heart rhythm; monitor is carried at all times and attached to the chest only when symptoms occur to record the heart rhythm at the time symptoms are experienced.

Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE): A non-invasive echocardiogram; an imaging device records the waves bouncing off the walls and valves of the heart. A computer creates a video of the heart to allow your doctor to see how efficiently your heart is pumping blood, and if there are any blood clots in the heart.

Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE): Operates similar to a TTE and is often performed to determine what is happening at the back of the heart. A probe is inserted into the mouth and down the esophagus to provide a rear view of the heart.

Cardiac computerized tomography (CT): 3D X-ray of heart and chest

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Radio waves, magnets and a computer create detailed pictures and video of the heart as it is beating.

Often, patients diagnosed with an abnormal heart rhythm condition also have high rates of other serious health conditions, including:

High blood pressure

High cholesterol

Heart failure

Coronary artery disease

If you have been experiencing symptoms or have already been diagnosed with an arrhythmia or other abnormal heart rhythm condition, you can find out more about the SCVI's Heart Rhythm Services.

To schedule an appointment, complete the appointment form on the right or call (888) 496-7168.